Dal Bada(ডাল বড়া)

 **ডাল বড়া (Lentil Fritters)** is a popular snack in Bengal, made from lentils that are ground into a batter, spiced, and deep-fried into crispy fritters. Here's a simple recipe for making it:

### Ingredients:

- **Masoor dal (red lentils)**: 1 cup

- **Green chilies**: 2-3 (adjust according to spice preference)

- **Onion**: 1 small, finely chopped

- **Ginger**: 1-inch piece, finely grated

- **Coriander leaves**: 2-3 tbsp, finely chopped

- **Cumin seeds**: 1 tsp

- **Fennel seeds**: 1/2 tsp

- **Baking soda**: 1/4 tsp (optional, for extra fluffiness)

- **Salt**: to taste

- **Oil**: for deep frying

### Instructions:

1. **Soak the lentils**: 

   - Wash the masoor dal thoroughly and soak it in water for 3-4 hours or overnight. After soaking, drain the water completely.

2. **Grind the dal**:

   - Transfer the soaked lentils to a blender. Add green chilies and ginger. Blend to make a thick, coarse paste. Use very little water, if needed. The batter should be thick enough to shape into small balls.

3. **Prepare the mixture**:

   - In a mixing bowl, combine the lentil paste with chopped onions, coriander leaves, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, baking soda (optional), and salt. Mix everything well.

4. **Heat the oil**:

   - In a deep frying pan, heat oil on medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying, but not smoking.

5. **Fry the ডাল বড়া**:

   - Take small portions of the lentil mixture and shape them into small balls or fritters with your hands. Carefully drop them into the hot oil. Fry until they turn golden brown and crispy on all sides. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan.

6. **Drain and serve**:

   - Once done, remove the fritters from the oil and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. **Serve**:

   - Serve the ডাল বড়া hot with chutney or ketchup. They make a great snack or side dish.

Enjoy your delicious ডাল বড়া!